USDOT Provides $9 Million for Emergency Repairs in Iowa

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced on April 12 that $9 million of “quick release” emergency relief funds will be dedicated to assist with repairing roads damaged by flooding.

The funds from the Federal Highway Administration were approved soon after the state Department of Transportation issued a request.

“These emergency relief funds will help Iowa expedite the repair process and restore access to roads as quickly as possible following the devastating floods in the state,” said Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao.

The funding will be directed at covering costs of repairs for restoring traffic, as well as preventing damage along areas affected by flooding. Estimates of the total damage caused by the storm were said to be about $90 million. Damage along Interstate 29 was estimated to be about $40 million, the department via FHWA stated in its announcement.

In March, major flooding occurred in 68 counties across the state. In addition to I-29, I-680 and US 34 experienced damage.

The “quick release” federal aid is directed at providing assistance for restoring access to localities and essential corridors.